What Is a Good Diuretic for Weight Loss?

Many herbs, including dandelion, ginger, parsley, hawthorn and juniper, produce diuretic effects. However, use of diuretics as a weight loss tool is potentially dangerous, reports Mayo Clinic. Excess water retention is associated with several conditions that require medical evaluation. Diuretics can complicate these problems and interact with prescribed drugs.

Removing necessary fluids from the body can also lead to imbalances in levels of electrolytes and essential minerals such as sodium, potassium and magnesium, according to Everyday Health. Severe depletion of fluids can cause life-threatening dehydration and damage internal organs. Self-medication with diuretics can also lead to fainting, muscle weakness and blurred vision.